Small group – max 7 pax -Wild Bears Safari on Transfgran

If you’re dreaming of a truly authentic Romanian adventure that mixes jaw-dropping scenery with wildlife sightings, this Wild Bears Safari on the famous Transfagarasan Highway might just be what you need. This tour, limited to a cozy group of up to 7 people, offers a rare chance to see wild brown bears in their natural environment, all while exploring some of the country’s most iconic sights. It’s not a big bus tour — think more like a friendly road trip with a knowledgeable guide, where the focus is on quality experiences rather than sheer numbers.

What I really like about this safari is how it balances wildlife encounters with breathtaking landscapes. The small-group format means you get more personalized attention from your guide, which can turn a good trip into a memorable one. Plus, you’ll visit legendary sites like Poenari Fortress, known for Vlad the Impaler, and Bâlea Lake, high in the mountains. The fact that most reviews mention seeing up to 20 bears in a single day shows just how special this experience can be — if luck is on your side.

One thing to keep in mind is that wild animals are unpredictable. Several reviews point out that seeing bears isn’t guaranteed, but the chance is high enough that you’ll likely come away with remarkable stories and photos. Also, this tour demands some flexibility — the Bâlea Lake stop is only accessible in summer and autumn, which limits the tour to June through November. If you’re prepared for a full day of travel with a handful of scenic stops, this trip offers great value for the price, especially considering the small group size and the chance to see Romania’s majestic wildlife.

Key points / Takeaways

• Small group size makes for a more intimate and flexible experience.
• Wild bear sightings are common, with reviews mentioning sightings of over 20 bears and even cubs.
• The expert guides, such as Sebastian and Roxana, receive high praise for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness.
• The tour includes several spectacular sights, including Poenari Fortress, Vidraru Dam, Capra Waterfall, and Bâlea Lake.
• The Transfagarasan Highway offers world-famous scenic views, making the drive itself a highlight.
• Timing and weather matter: the tour is seasonal and depends on good weather for mountain and wildlife viewing.
• Respect for nature is emphasized — food in the vehicle is discouraged to avoid attracting bears.
• The value for money is high, given the small group, guide expertise, and variety of experiences packed into one day.

Romania is a land of contrasts, where rugged mountains meet mysterious legends, and this Wild Bears Safari captures that essence perfectly. As someone who’s seen a lot of tours, I appreciate how this one manages to mix natural beauty, cultural significance, and wildlife — all in a compact and manageable package.

The Itinerary: What Makes Each Stop Special

The journey begins early in Bucharest at Piața 21 Decembrie 1989, where your guide picks you up in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. From here, the tour quickly gets into gear, starting with a stop at Curtea de Arge, a perfect spot for a quick coffee break and stretching your legs. It’s a good chance to prepare for the day ahead.

Next up is the legendary Poenari Fortress. While you don’t go inside, the view of this ancient stronghold perched high on a cliff is impressive. Your guide will share stories about Vlad the Impaler — the real figure behind Dracula — who once held this strategic position. Several reviews highlight the spectacular views and the historical intrigue without the need for a lengthy inside visit, making this a well-balanced stop. One traveler even said, “We loved the history but appreciated the quick visit that kept us on schedule.”

The Vidraru Dam follows, an incredible feat of engineering. Standing 166 meters tall, it’s one of Europe’s highest dams and creates the picturesque Vidraru Lake. Here, you’ll enjoy a photo stop and a walk along the dam, soaking in the views of the mountains reflected on the water. Many reviews praise this section for its breathtaking scenery and the chance to appreciate Romanian engineering.

From here, the road takes you onto the Transfagarasan Highway, often called one of the most spectacular roads in the world. Over roughly three hours, you’ll traverse this winding mountain pass, with multiple stunning viewpoints. This part is the highlight for many — the landscape is rugged, dramatic, and perfect for photos. One reviewer called it “the road itself a natural wonder,” and it’s easy to see why.

The next stop is Capra Waterfall, a tall, scenic cascade where nature lovers will want to snap plenty of photos. It’s a quick stop, but one that captures the rugged beauty of the Fagaras Mountains. Several reviews mention how scenic and inviting this spot is, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Finally, you reach Bâlea Lake, nestled at over 2,000 meters altitude. Its turquoise waters and surrounding peaks make it a favorite for visitors. During summer and autumn, the road to the lake is open, and you’ll have a guided tour, free time, and scenic views. Past travelers rave about the unspoiled beauty and the chance to relax amid mountain scenery. Be aware that winter and spring closures mean this part is seasonal.

The return leg takes you back through Curtea de Arge for a quick refresh before heading home, with plenty of stories from your guide on Romania’s wild landscapes and wildlife.

Transport and Group Dynamics

The small group size — limited to 7 participants — makes a big difference. You’ll travel in a comfortable minivan, which is easier to maneuver on mountain roads than a large coach. The personalized attention from guides like Sebastian or Roxana is a standout, with many reviews praising their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness.

The tour includes pick-up and drop-off in central Bucharest, at ‘Fântâna de la Universitate,’ which is very convenient. The entire day is well-paced, with stops spaced for rest, photos, and explanation, so you won’t feel rushed.

Wildlife Encounters: The Main Event

Most travelers come for the chance to see wild bears. And based on reviews, your odds are quite good. Multiple groups report seeing up to 20 bears, including cubs, in a single day — sometimes just a few meters from the vehicle. Several reviews mention seeing more than 15 bears, foxes, and even weasels.

The guides emphasize respecting the animals’ space, and no food is allowed in the vehicle, which is crucial for safety and preserving the bears’ natural behavior. As one reviewer noted, “If the car smells like food, we become a target for bears,” underscoring the importance of following instructions.

Seeing wild bears in their natural habitat is a rare privilege, and the tour’s success in this area is reflected in glowing reviews. Guides like Sebastian and Roxana are experienced at finding and observing wildlife and make every effort to maximize sightings.

The Value of This Experience

Compared to larger bus tours, this small-group safari offers a more intimate and flexible experience. The price—considering the personalized guides, multiple scenic stops, and wildlife sightings—is quite competitive. Many reviews highlight the good value for money, especially when you factor in the ability to see more animals and enjoy authentic landscapes without the crowds.

The seasonality of some stops, like Bâlea Lake, is an important consideration. If you visit in the right months, you’ll enjoy full access. If not, you might miss this highlight but the other stops still make the trip worthwhile.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari is perfect for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those who enjoy scenic drives and cultural landmarks. It suits travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy and want a more authentic experience than a large bus trip. If you’re comfortable with a full day of travel and outdoor activity, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

It’s also excellent for adventurous families with older children (over 7), who want to see Romania’s mountains and wildlife up close. However, young kids under 7 might find the drive too long or the stops less engaging.

This full-day tour offers good value, especially because it includes all transportation, a professional guide, and multiple scenic stops. Food isn’t included, so bringing some snacks and cash for local markets is wise. The pick-up and drop-off arrangement in Bucharest makes logistics simple, especially if you’re staying downtown.

The tour runs seasonally, from June to November, aligning well with good weather and wildlife activity. Be prepared for early starts — the departure around 7:45 am keeps the day busy but allows plenty of time to visit each site and increase your chances of bear sightings.

The small group size means more personal interaction and flexibility — you’ll likely get better photo opportunities and more in-depth explanations. It’s a good choice for those who want a personal touch and the chance to ask questions.

If your goal is to see Romania’s spectacular natural beauty and wild bears in the wild, this tour’s high success rate and dedicated guides make it a top choice. The small-group format means you’ll get a more personalized experience, with plenty of time for photos, questions, and wildlife watching.

Travelers who enjoy active outdoor experiences combined with cultural sites like Poenari Fortress will find this trip perfectly balanced. It’s well-suited for adventurous, curious travelers who don’t mind a full day on the road and are excited by the idea of spotting bears just meters away.

For those who value authentic landscapes, expert guiding, and small-group intimacy, this safari offers a memorable Romanian adventure—one that’s worth every cent.

Can I see bears even if I visit outside the season?
Bears are more active from June through November when the tour is available. Outside these months, wildlife sightings are less likely, and some stops like Bâlea Lake may be closed.

Is the tour suitable for children under 7?
No, the tour isn’t recommended for children under 7, primarily because of the long travel hours and outdoor nature of the stops.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, water, and cash. Remember, no food or drinks are allowed in the vehicle to avoid attracting bears.

How good are the chances of spotting bears?
Based on numerous reviews, the likelihood of seeing bears in the wild is high — travelers often see 10+ bears, including cubs, in a single day.

How long is the drive on the Transfagarasan Highway?
The scenic drive on the highway lasts about 3 hours, with several viewpoints and photo stops along the way.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included in the tour, so plan to bring snacks or enjoy a meal during a stop at a local spot.

What’s the guide like?
Guides like Sebastian and Roxana are praised for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness, making the trip informative and fun.